Aden McKay has replicated the milestones of long-time teammates Tristan Kewish and Jarryd Langdon by playing 400 games for the Hoppers Tigers in the Werribee Basketball Association.
In the 35-year history of the club, only six players have achieved the feat – three of them current players and good friends.
McKay celebrated his 400th in style with a win last Tuesday night.
“I’ve always played with my two mates so I’m pretty happy I got to 400 games with them,” McKay told Star Weekly.
“Ever since the under-8s, our chemistry has really kept up on the court. We always know what we’re doing on the court and we’ve always had the same mentality towards each game.”
This will be the last chance for this trio to win a premiership together in youth basketball.
They have won four premierships in 12 years, but a fifth would be the sweetest of all.
“Four out of 12 – you can’t complain,” McKay said. “We might be able to pull out another one this season because we’re undefeated so far. It could be the last one that we win together.”
McKay is the tallest player in the team at six-foot-three and is generally used in the centre position, though he believes his versatility is one of his main assets.
The Werribee resident knows that no matter the position he plays, he must utilise his height.
“I use my height and athletic ability a lot,” he said. “I try to work the boards as much as possible in a game.
“I’m not the best shooter, but I can get around the court quickly.”
Tigers president Mario Costa paid tribute to the loyalty shown by all three players.
The thought of leaving has never entered the mind of McKay.
“There’s so many kids who have come through this one team since the under-8s,” McKay said. “I haven’t thought about leaving the team ever.”
McKay was introduced to basketball by his dad, Stuart, who coached the team for six years.
